Trying to dodge the 2026 tech price hikes? Here’s the gear I’d buy sooner rather than later, plus practical tips for finding the best deals

The AI-driven demand for data center hardware has sent prices for RAM, SSDs, and other microchips soaring, with DDR5 RAM now four times more expensive than in mid-2025 and many SSDs doubling in price. Major brands like Crucial have exited the consumer market entirely, and clear signs of an AI investment bubble are only fueling demand as companies lock in purchases while prices remain high. This leaves consumers facing tough choices, as prices for a wide range of products are already rising and show no signs of leveling off in the near future. Manufacturers are also reducing base-level specs and using slower components in premium machines, making it more important than ever to shop smart and act quickly if you’re planning a major tech upgrade.

The biggest price hikes are hitting products that rely heavily on RAM and storage, including prebuilt computers (desktops, laptops, Mini PCs, and even Raspberry Pis), gaming consoles (PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and even the delayed Steam Machine), and component hardware like GPUs, SSDs, and even mechanical HDDs. Phones, tablets, and portable devices are also feeling the pinch, with budget and mid-range models most affected. Even everyday storage like SD cards and USB drives have seen price jumps of up to 50% or more, and shrinkflation is becoming common as manufacturers reduce capacities to keep costs down.

Other tech categories, such as TVs, monitors, and audio gear, are also at risk as panel prices rise and chip shortages persist. With no clear end in sight—experts predict the situation could last through 2027 or longer—consumers are advised to research thoroughly, avoid skimping on RAM (16GB is the new minimum), and consider premium devices or Apple products, which are better positioned to absorb cost increases. Ultimately, if you need a tech upgrade, it’s wise to act sooner rather than later, but always shop smart and check reviews to avoid being caught out by reduced specs or hidden price hikes.

Tags: AI boom, RAM shortage, SSD prices, microchip crisis, tech price hikes, data center demand, console prices, GPU costs, smartphone specs, shrinkflation, Apple value, 2026 tech, PC upgrades, storage costs, panel prices, audio gear, chip shortages, consumer tech, buying advice, tech reviews

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